Edexcel A level Business - 20 Mark Questions

Summary

This tutorial provides a step-by-step guide for A-Level Business students on how to effectively tackle 20-mark essay questions in the Edexcel exam. Using Spotify's dilemma of extending its product lifecycle as a case study, the video emphasizes the importance of presenting a balanced argument. Students are taught to evaluate two strategies: continuing to target existing markets like Europe and North America, and expanding into emerging markets in Asia. The video outlines key strategies for structuring the essay, analyzing both options' strengths and limitations, and making a well-supported, final recommendation.

Takeaways

• 😀 A 20-mark essay in Edexcel A-Level Business requires a balanced response, evaluating both options with their strengths and weaknesses.
• 😀 The key to success is providing a structured argument, discussing the pros and cons of each strategy in detail before concluding.
• 😀 The focus of the essay should be on analyzing the impact and consequences of the two options, not just listing points.
• 😀 Context is crucial – all arguments and examples should be applied specifically to the business in the case study (Spotify in this example).
• 😀 A good 20-mark essay includes a clear introduction, body paragraphs for each option, and a conclusion with a well-reasoned verdict.
• 😀 For each strategy, start with the strengths, followed by a detailed analysis of how those strengths would impact the business, then discuss limitations.
• 😀 In the conclusion, provide a judgment on which strategy is best for the business, justifying your recommendation with a reasoned argument.
• 😀 When considering existing markets (e.g., Europe and North America), focus on cost reduction, lower risk, and established customer loyalty as strengths.
• 😀 For emerging markets (e.g., Asia), the strengths include growth potential and lower competition, but there are risks related to investment and lower consumer income.
• 😀 Evaluation should consider both short-term and long-term implications, with an emphasis on the overall strategy for the business’s growth and sustainability.
• 😀 Balancing your argument is essential – don’t favor one option without discussing the limitations, and always support your analysis with clear examples from the case study.

Q & A

What is the key to answering a 20-mark essay question in an Edexcel A-Level Business exam?

The key is to provide a balanced response, analyzing both the pros and cons of each option presented in the question. The examiner expects you to evaluate the options, not just argue for one over the other.

How should you structure your essay to tackle a 20-mark question?

The essay should be structured in five parts: 1) Introduction, 2) Advantages of Option 1, 3) Disadvantages of Option 1, 4) Advantages of Option 2, 5) Disadvantages of Option 2, and 6) Conclusion. The conclusion should include a decision on which option is best.

What does Edexcel mean by a 'balanced' answer?

A balanced answer means presenting both sides of the argument for each option, discussing both the strengths and limitations, and avoiding bias toward one option. It's important to present an even-handed analysis.

Why is it important to keep the answer in context with the business in question?

Edexcel exams require answers that are applied to the specific business in the question. The answer should reflect the circumstances, challenges, and characteristics of that business rather than offering a generic response.

What are the two main skills Edexcel exams expect you to demonstrate in a 20-mark essay?

The two main skills are analysis and evaluation. Analysis involves explaining the consequences and impacts of the options, while evaluation involves making a judgment and balancing the merits and drawbacks of the options.

What is the significance of using case studies or extracts in the exam?

Case studies and extracts provide context and real-world information that should be used to support and justify your argument. This makes your answer more relevant and specific to the business in question.

How should you approach the analysis in a 20-mark essay?

You should analyze the consequences of each option by explaining what it means for the business in terms of revenue, customer experience, costs, risks, and other relevant factors. The analysis should go beyond just stating points and should include explanations of the potential impacts.

What role does competition play in the decision between targeting existing markets or emerging markets?

Competition is a significant factor. In existing markets, such as North America and Europe, Spotify faces more intense competition, which could limit its growth potential. In emerging markets, like Asia, there may be less competition but challenges such as lower disposable income among consumers.

How does the conclusion of a 20-mark essay help clarify your decision?

The conclusion allows you to provide a final judgment based on the evidence you've presented. You should summarize the key points of both options, explain why one is more suitable, and justify your decision with clear reasoning.

Why might Spotify prefer to target existing markets over expanding to emerging markets?

Spotify might prefer to target existing markets because it’s a lower-cost option with less financial risk. They already have a strong brand presence and understanding of these markets, which reduces the need for heavy investment in market research or promotions.

What might be a significant limitation of targeting emerging markets for Spotify?

A significant limitation is the lower disposable income in many emerging markets, which may affect Spotify’s pricing strategies and its ability to generate high revenue. Additionally, these markets may have cultural and infrastructure challenges that could hinder rapid expansion.

How does the stock market flotation affect Spotify's strategy decision?

Spotify's stock market flotation might influence its strategy decision because the company may want to minimize risks and demonstrate stability to potential investors. Focusing on established markets with less competition could be seen as a safer, more predictable option in the short term.

What is the potential benefit of targeting emerging markets like Asia?

Emerging markets like Asia offer greater growth potential due to their large populations and less saturated music streaming markets. Targeting these markets could provide long-term growth opportunities and significantly extend Spotify’s product lifecycle.